Simple Charges/Induction Question

  • Thread starter Rockstar47
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In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a charged rubber rod to induce a net negative charge on a metal sphere. The question is whether it is possible to induce a net negative charge on the sphere or if the rubber rod must be positively charged. The conversation also mentions the concept of induction and its effect on the charge of the metal sphere.
  • #1
Rockstar47
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Homework Statement



How can you use a charged rubber rod to induce a net negative charge on a metal sphere?

Homework Equations



None.

The Attempt at a Solution



OK, I understand the basics, but it seems like this question should be worded so as to inducing a net "positive" charge on the metal sphere. It seems key to me that the rubber rod would have to be negatively charged, and if we're talking about induction (the two objects not touching), it would seem intuitive that bringing the rubber rod near the sphere would cause electrons to migrate to the side of the sphere opposite the sphere. If the sphere had a ground, some electrons would completely leave the sphere and the cutting the ground would leave the sphere with a net positive charge. But how the heck can you get the sphere to have a negative charge via induction? Or is there a means by which that rubber rod can be positively charged?
 
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  • #2
The question doesn't say you have to charge the metal spherer via induction.
The terms induce there is not a scientific term. Its meaning is more like "cause".
 
  • #3


I would approach this question by first understanding the basics of electrostatics and induction. I would explain that when a charged object is brought near a neutral object, the charges in the neutral object will rearrange themselves in response to the charged object. This is known as induction.

In this scenario, the charged rubber rod is the inducing object and the metal sphere is the induced object. Since the rubber rod is negatively charged, it will repel the electrons in the metal sphere and attract the positive charges. This will cause a separation of charges in the metal sphere, with the side closest to the rubber rod becoming positively charged and the side furthest from the rubber rod becoming negatively charged.

To induce a net negative charge on the metal sphere, we can use a process called grounding. This involves connecting the metal sphere to a ground, which allows the excess electrons to flow out of the sphere, leaving it with a net negative charge. This can be achieved by touching the metal sphere with a wire connected to the ground or by placing the metal sphere on a conductive surface connected to the ground.

Alternatively, we can also achieve a net negative charge on the metal sphere by using a positively charged rubber rod. In this case, the positive charges in the rubber rod will attract the electrons in the metal sphere, causing them to move towards the side of the sphere closest to the rubber rod. This will leave the side furthest from the rubber rod with a net negative charge.

In summary, by using a charged rubber rod and the process of induction, we can induce a net negative charge on a metal sphere by either grounding it or using a positively charged rubber rod. It is important to note that the key factor in inducing a net negative charge is the presence of a charged object, and the specific charge of the object (positive or negative) is not as important.
 

1. What is a simple charge?

A simple charge is a fundamental property of matter that causes it to experience electrical and magnetic forces. It can be either positive or negative.

2. What is induction in relation to charges?

Induction is the process by which a charged object can create an electric field in a nearby neutral object, causing the neutral object to become polarized and develop a temporary charge.

3. How does induction work?

When a charged object is brought near a neutral object, the charged object's electric field causes the electrons in the neutral object to shift, creating a temporary separation of charge and inducing a charge in the neutral object.

4. What is the difference between conductors and insulators in relation to charges?

Conductors are materials that allow charges to move freely, while insulators are materials that do not allow charges to move easily. This means that conductors are more easily affected by induction than insulators.

5. How is induction used in everyday life?

Induction is used in many everyday devices, such as transformers, electric motors, and generators. It is also used in technologies like wireless charging and induction stovetops.

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